[Asian Games] Asiad to feature cutting-edge broadcasting tech

The Incheon Asian Games, a multisport event to be held in the port city of Incheon from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4, will be showcasing state-of-the-art broadcasting technology.

The international broadcasting center, a hub for broadcasters covering the Asiad, is a notable example.

The IBC, established and managed by IT solutions developer LG CNS, is the first of its kind to be wholly run by a domestic firm for an international sports event in South Korea.

High-definition TV coverage of all 36 sports at the Asian Games will be distributed through the IBC to 72 global sports channels in 45 countries. 

LG CNS will also work hand-in-hand with KBS and MBC, Korea’s major broadcasters, in producing ultrahigh-definition, or 4K, coverage of matches at the Asiad, including volleyball and gymnastics.

The 4K broadcasts are expected to bring the enthusiasm and excitement at the stadiums to home viewers.

“LG CNS will prove the excellence of Korea’s broadcasting and IT capabilities around the world by successfully running the international broadcasting center,” said an official from LG Group’s IT solutions business.

Japanese TV and broadcasting equipment maker Sony will provide 4K equipment including cameras and monitors as well as technical support to KBS and MBC.

The two broadcasting firms had a successful test run of 4K broadcasting during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil.

Manufacturers of 4K TVs, including Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics, will be competing for potential customers by showing off their respective UHD TVs outside Asiad stadiums.

The Korean tech giants Samsung and LG have been making efforts to nurture the UHD TV market by unveiling a wide variety of TV models, including some with curved screens.

“Samsung’s curved TVs will provide consumers an immersive viewing experience and enable them to enjoy the memorable moments of the matches at the Asiad in Incheon,” an official from Samsung Electronics said.

By Kim Young-won (wone0102@heraldcorp.com)